Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda
Lake Bunyonyi is situated in the southwestern part of Uganda between Kabale and Kisoro. It is encircled by 29 islands. The lake is also surrounded by terraced hills and magnificent natural landscape that protrudes from the neighborhood.
Lake Bunyonyi is believed to be the second deepest lake in Africa after Lake Tanganyika. The lake enjoys moderate temperature all year round; the lake is situated 1,962m above sea level and this makes the weather around it cool both in the morning and evening hours.
Lake Bunyonyi is thought to have been formed about 8,000 years ago due to the lava flow from the local craters which blocked off the Ndego River in the present day Muko to create a natural dam. The lake covers a total surface area of about 60km sq. but forming the core of 180km sq. wetland ecosystem. Dotted with about 29 islands of various shapes and sizes across the water, it is encircled by steep terraced hills; Lake Bunyonyi is a magical spot that deserves to be on bucket list for your safari in Africa because the place ought to be considered one of the natural world wonders that one ought not to miss encountering. Lake Bunyonyi has always been popular for short tours in Uganda and Rwanda and can also be combined with Uganda gorilla trekking safaris in Bwindi national park and Mgahinga national park. It is a perfect place to relax and refresh after a tiresome gorilla trekking tour, reflect on the experience and admire the cool and fresh breeze from the lake.
Lake Bunyonyi translates as a place of little birds in reference to the prolific weaver colonies along the shores of its lake, larger birds also being represented by the likes of grey-crowned crane and variety of Egrets and Heron. This place is actually the best place to see Otters in Africa, in particular the diurnal spotted-neck Otters with several pairs resident in the nearby islands.
The absence of Bilharzia, Hippos and crocodiles makes swimming in this lake very possible; other activities here include canoe ride experience, sun set and sun rise boat cruise, mountain biking, hill climbing, and breathtaking scenery viewing.
Lake Bunyonyi is also an adventure spot with the introduction of an adventure park in the interior of the lake which presents a myriad of activities to engage in, including warrior high ropes, zip lining across the lake, among others.